-Fred in Maine Beagle Mix Lewiston, ME

Do you have a soft spot in your heart for shy dogs? Then Fred may be the dog for you.

Fred is a 10-year-old Beagle mix who has been in foster care for almost 4 months. He has been making progress with trusting his foster mom and dad. He enjoys his twice-daily walks (he’s a fairly brisk walker) and loves time on the bed and the couch. Once he trusts you, he will lie between your legs on the couch or the bed – but only if they are covered with a blanket. At night he likes to lie right next to you. He has begun to ask for pets and head rubs. He will lie patiently under your desk while you work. He's very cute when he's excited and plays with stuffed toys. He doesn’t want to meet strangers; he will retreat or try to be invisible. When you are home he will follow you from room to room. When you come home he will throw a stuffed toy in the air and run around the room in celebration and excitement. He likes to go for car rides and sit in the passenger seat.

Fred needs to be on leash at all times outdoors, unless he is in a physically-fenced area (no electric fences or shock collars, he’s way too sensitive for that). He gets spooked easily and is a flight risk.

Fred is looking for a quiet, adult home where we think he would do best as the one and only furry family member. He is house trained and well-behaved in his foster home. He does well in an ex-pen or crate for short periods. He does bark to alert you of things, but not excessively.

Fred’s ideal life will be one that doesn’t venture too far out of his comfort zone. His comfort zone may slowly get a little bigger as he learns to trust but he will most likely never be a social butterfly. Fred would thrive in a safe and comfortable home where he can be loved and feel secure. This very sensitive guy is looking for a patient and kind adopter who will give him all the time he needs to settle into his new home. He will be a great companion for someone who likes to enjoy life’s quiet moments.

Fred will need to meet potential adopters several times to get to know them a bit. Fred is a ‘work in progress’ and wants an adopter who is willing to go at his pace and not force him into situations he is not ready for. You will be rewarded with seeing this special boy learn to trust, little by little, and your heart will swell when he starts showing you his playful side and the personality that he longs to feel safe enough to express.